Update:

despite mud, wind, rain and blisters, we managed to get to the finish line after ~13h of walking.

We are grateful beyond words for the incredibly generous support.

Warmest thank you!

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As some may know, Lupus and other autoimmune diseases run in Giulia's family and affect many of our dear ones directly.

These are invisible illnesses that don’t always get the attention or understanding they deserve - even from the medical world. They can quietly but seriously impact multiple organs. Some examples that we’ve seen directly within our immediate circle involve attacking joints, brain, heart, lungs, kidneys, stomach, skin. Fatigue, chronic pain, lack of sleep, anxiety, and depression often come on top. Timing and progression are unpredictable, can evolve very suddenly and can be tough to manage.

There is no cure yet, and navigating treatments is often a frustrating trial-and-error process, managed on a case-by-case basis. Diagnosis can take years, and sadly, many patients are not taken seriously at first and even seen as hypochondriac. We have experienced this up close, and it is heartbreaking.

Research is limited and general awareness is also low. It's not uncommon for the patient to have to educate the medical professionals about symptoms and ramifications.

We therefore decided to try and give our small contribution by enrolling in a 63km trek (yes - 1.5x the distance of a marathon!) in a day on 7th June, around the island of Guernsey, and use such occasion to raise awareness and funds for the cause.

This is very close to our heart and we truly appreciate any form of support, large or small.

Warmest thank you for your support.

Giulia & Tom